Colts Acquire Former MVP Matt Ryan as Falcons Sign Marcus Mariota

Today the Indianapolis Colts acquired former NFL MVP Matt Ryan from the Atlanta Falcons in return for a 2022 3rd round pick. This move really shakes the QB market in a year where it seems as though every bottom half team is trying to find “the guy” behind center. 

Trade Grade: Indianapolis Colts: B-

While there can be no doubt that receiving a former MVP under center should improve the odds for the Colts to make the playoffs and perhaps a Super Bowl run. Many have said that Ryan, now 36, is over the hill having had a very underwhelming performance in 2021. But at the cost of only a 3rd round pick, who could say no? They will however have to pick up Ryan’s massive contract which will cost the Colts $80 million over  the next two years. With the option to release him following 2022 which would save them $29 million in 2023. 

Trade Grade: Atlanta Falcons: C

Although a 3rd round pick for a former MVP to a team that is in desperate need of a QB might not seem like a great trade in fact, some have been calling it moronic, we have to remember that Matt Ryan definitely declined last year and doesn’t seem to be the same caliber of quarterback he was a few years ago. With all that being said, it probably isn’t the best value they could have gotten for Ryan considering his achievements.

After trading away their longtime franchise quarterback, the Falcons decided to pick up Marcus Mariota who will be getting his second stint as the starting quarterback for an NFL team since being drafted 2nd overall to the Titans in 2015. His deal is reported to be 2-year $18.75 million according to Yahoo Sports.